Bangkok: The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) are joining forces to leverage research and technology in addressing pressing natural resource issues. According to Thai News Agency, the collaboration aims to conserve rare marine species, restore marine environments, and mitigate the adverse effects of tourism, promoting a "Nature Positive" approach.
Mr. Suchart Chomklin, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, and Professor Dr. Yotsanu Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, formalized the partnership by signing a memorandum of understanding. The signing was witnessed by high-ranking officials from both ministries, marking a significant step in integrating science, research, and innovation towards sustainable natural resource development.
Mr. Suchart emphasized that the collaboration aligns with the royal initiatives of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, who has been instrumental in marine conservation efforts in Thailand. Her projects, including the establishment of the Coral Reef and Marine Life Conservation Foundation, aim to support the preservation and restoration of coral reefs and assist endangered marine species.
The partnership highlights the importance of combining scientific knowledge and innovation with government initiatives to ensure timely and efficient problem-solving in ecosystem conservation and resource management. This integrated approach aims to balance conservation efforts with sustainable resource use.
Professor Dr. Yotsanu noted that MHESI will bridge its research expertise and technological capabilities with MNRE's conservation efforts. This alliance will foster the development of research addressing environmental issues and promote the application of such research in policy-making and practical implementations.
The cooperative framework includes strategic research, project development, and the establishment of "Living Labs" for testing and applying innovations to real-world challenges. Additionally, it emphasizes human resource development and the creation of collaborative networks at local levels to expand successful initiatives across Thailand.
The initiative will concentrate on three main areas: conserving endangered marine species by reducing threats to dugongs and Irrawaddy dolphins, restoring the Songkhla Lake ecosystem, and mitigating eutrophication. Furthermore, it will focus on regulating tourism impacts through strategic land use and managing tourism activities in line with the ecosystem's carrying capacity to ensure the sustainable use of marine resources.